The Delta State Government has reviewed the dress code for civil servants, warning that improper dressing in the state public service will no longer be tolerated.
The directive was contained in a circular from the Office of the Head of Service and released on Thursday by the New Media Office of the Governor. According to the circular, the review was introduced “to uphold decency in the appearance of Public Servants across the State.”
It recalled that the previous dress code was issued on March 12, 2009, but noted that “in an effort to address the unpleasant practice of improper dressing that has become commonplace in the State Public Service, it is instructive to announce a review of the existing dress code for the purpose of upholding decency in the appearance of Public Servants across the State.”
Senior officers were urged to lead by example, with the circular stressing: “It is also very important to underscore the vital role expected of senior public servants in revising the said anomaly through leading examples of appropriate dressing culture that demonstrates decorum to guide and correct subordinates; and whenever lapses are observed, sanctions may be invoked towards checkmating the ugly trend.”
For male officers, the new rules specify:
- Officers on Grade Levels (GL) 13 and above must appear in complete suits, except uniformed officers.
- Officers on GL 07–12 may wear trousers, shirt and tie, or suits, but Administrative Officers must always appear in suits.
- Officers on GL 01–06 must appear as above, while drivers and plant operators must be in uniform or, where unavailable, trousers and shirts.
- Traditional attire is allowed only on Fridays and special occasions, limited to “smart senator suits, modern caftans or native shirts with matching trousers, complemented by the appropriate traditional cap.”
- “Resource Control and Papas Caps are prohibited; while bushy beards are proscribed,” the circular stated.
For female officers, traditional attire is also permissible only on Fridays and special occasions. Such outfits include buba and wrapper, skirts with blouses, or gowns made from African fabrics, provided they have proper sleeves.
The circular warned: “All female dressing should be with decorum devoid of any provocative exposure of cleavages. Meanwhile, braided or tainted hair; long eye lashes and artificial nails are prohibited.”
To enforce compliance, heads of departments have been instructed to send home erring officers. “Suffice it to state that this circular is intended to promote discipline in dressing culture among Public Servants.
To enforce strict adherence it behooves all Heads of Departments to execute these provisions; and not hesitate in directing any erring officer that is inappropriately attired to return home, dress decently and resume duty promptly; or risk more stringent sanctions,” the circular read.
Permanent Secretaries and departmental heads were further directed to ensure wide publicity and strict compliance.
The review is part of the state government’s wider push for professionalism and discipline in the public service, aligning with existing laws against indecent dressing and efforts to improve work culture and the state’s public image.
